The Most Beautiful Schanigärten in Vienna: For Enjoying Outdoor Dining

Written by: Helene Ausserwöger, 29.05.2025

It’s that time of year again: the sun is shining, temperatures are rising, and both locals and visitors in Vienna are heading outside. That can only mean one thing: Schanigarten season has officially begun.

You’re wondering what a Schanigarten is? It’s an Austrian term for sidewalk seating in front of a café, bar, or restaurant. Essentially an outdoor dining area set up on public ground, usually right in front of the establishment. Food and drinks are served there, and it’s a true Viennese tradition that invites you to slow down and enjoy life.

As soon as the first warm days arrive, pavements and parking lanes all over the city transform into cosy outdoor lounges filled with colourful chairs, small tables, and the sound of clinking glasses. It’s a unique atmosphere that you don’t want to miss – and that’s exactly why we’ve gathered some of the best Schanigarten hotspots in Vienna for you.

Table of Contents:

What Is a Schanigarten? Vienna’s Unique Outdoor Dining Tradition

The term Schanigarten is typically Viennese, and often causes confusion outside of the city. After all, it has little to do with an actual “garden.” It’s more like a pavement café, though there’s a key difference from a traditional Gastgarten in terms of location. While a Gastgarten is part of a restaurant’s private courtyard or garden, the Schanigarten is set up on public ground, usually right on the pavement or at the edge of the street. That means it requires an official permit and fees for the owners.

From early March onward, tables and chairs are carried outside – and if the weather cooperates, you can enjoy sitting, eating, and sipping drinks outdoors all the way through to November 30th.

The origin of the Schanigarten dates back to the 18th century and a certain Johann “Schani,” a coffeehouse owner who was reportedly the first to set up tables in front of his café. The iconic phrase “Schani, bring out the garden!” („Schani, trag den Garten raus!“) is said to come from him. Because Schanigärten are often simple, flexible setups – quickly assembled and just as quickly packed away.

One thing’s for sure – Schanigärten have become a beloved part of Vienna’s café culture and are now an essential part of the warm summer months. 

Best Schanigärten in Vienna for Students: Affordable Outdoor Dining Spots

Whether it’s between two uni lectures, after a long study session, or simply to unwind in the evening with friends – a cosy Schanigarten is often just what you need. It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive – as long as the atmosphere is right, and the drinks are affordable.

We’ve looked around and collected our favourite Schanigarten spots in Vienna that are perfect for students.

Café Europa: The Schanigarten-Hotspot for students in the Zollergasse

Address: Zollergasse 8, 1070 Vienna
Opening hours: Sun–Wed 9:00 am–2:00 am, Thu–Sat 9:00 am–4:00 am

Café Europa has long become a go-to spot for many students. The Schanigarten is located just off the bustling Mariahilfer Straße, offering cosy seating, a colourful crowd, and a laid-back vibe – perfect for long summer evenings.

The drink menu is extensive, the prices are fair – so it’s no surprise that the place is buzzing, especially on weekends. You’ll also find small snacks and a kitchen that stays open late into the night – ideal for anyone feeling snackish after midnight.

STUWO tip: If there’s no free table at Europa: Just next door, Café Liebling awaits with its mismatched vintage furniture, relaxed atmosphere, and a charming Schanigarten of its own.

 
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Skopik & Lohn (1020): A Stylish Schanigarten in Vienna with Urban Flair

Address: Leopoldsgasse 17, 1020 Vienna
Opening hours: Tue–Sun 6:00 pm–12:00 am

Chic, artistic, and still very relaxed: Skopik & Lohn in Vienna’s 2nd district offers one of the most stylish Schanigärten in the city. Surrounded by greenery, you’ll be dining in a calm yet urban setting with views of charming old-style building facades. The cuisine is modern, creative, and of high quality – and the price-performance ratio is more than fair for what’s on offer. In addition to that, they have a great wine list, well-mixed cocktails, and refined aperitifs.

Perfect for a special dinner with friends – or for a date that deserves to leave a lasting impression.

Café Ansari (1020): Outdoor Restaurant Vienna with Oriental Inspiration

Address: Praterstraße 15, 1020 Vienna
Opening hours: Mon–Sat 8:00 am–11:30 pm, Sundays 9:00 am–3:00 pm

Café Ansari is a popular spot for anyone who enjoys good food, a relaxed atmosphere, and a touch of oriental flair. The menu impresses with its diversity; Georgian, Mediterranean, international – featuring delicious brunch classics and light dishes perfect for hot summer days.

The modern Schanigarten sits right on Praterstraße and is shaded by large deciduous trees, making it a true hotspot during the warmer months. Whether you’re up for a laid-back brunch or a cosy evening chat, Café Ansari fits the mood.

Plutzer Bräu (1070): One of the Best Schanigärten Vienna Has to Offer

Address: Schrankgasse 2 / corner of Stiftgasse, 1070 Vienna
Opening hours: Daily 10:00 am–12:00 am

Plutzer Bräu brings authentic beer garden vibes to the heart of Vienna’s 7th district. The spacious Schanigarten is perfect for relaxing with friends – even in larger groups, for example after a visit to the nearby MuseumsQuartier.

The menu features Austrian classics like schnitzel and goulash, alongside burgers and juicy ribs. Best of all: the prices are absolutely student-friendly. It’s the perfect place to unwind, chat, and wrap up the day after university or work.

Amerlingbeisl (1070): Beautiful Schanigarten Vienna in a Green Courtyard

Address: Stiftgasse 8, 1070 Vienna
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 11:30 am–2:00 am, Sundays & holidays 10:00 am–2:00 am

A true classic among Vienna’s Schanigärten: Amerlingbeisl charms with an idyllic courtyard filled with greenery, fairy lights, and cobblestones – giving you real holiday vibes right in the city. It’s the perfect hideaway when you need a break from the urban hustle.

Treat yourself to a delicious breakfast or enjoy a traditional Austrian Brettljause in the evening. And with opening hours that stretch late into the night, it’s an ideal spot for long summer evenings full of food, drinks, and good conversation.

Ulrichplatz (1070): Outdoor Restaurant Vienna for Brunch and Socialising

Address ERICH: Neustiftgasse 27, 1070 Vienna

Address ULRICH: Sankt-Ulrichs-Platz 1, 1070 Vienna

Opening hours ERICH: Sun–Wed 9:00 am–1:00 am, Thu–Sat 9:00 am–2:00 am

Opening hours ULRICH: Tue–Fri 7:30 am–1:00 am, Sat & Sun 9:00 am–1:00 am

The Sankt-Ulrichs-Platz in Vienna’s 7th district is a hotspot for foodies and café lovers alike – especially because it’s home to not one, but two trendy venues: ULRICH and ERICH. These two stylish spots sit side by side and offer not only great food and drinks but also one of the city’s most beautiful Schanigärten. No wonder, ULRICH even won the “Goldener Schani” award back in 2015.

ULRICH serves up breakfast, snacks, and drinks in a laid-back atmosphere, while ERICH impresses with Mexican-cuisine and creative cocktails. Whether you’re meeting friends for brunch, soaking up the sun over coffee, or winding down with an after-work drink – the vibe at Ulrichplatz is always on point. And all of it just a few steps away from the Mariahilfer Straße.

Vollpension (1040): Cakes like how grandma used to make

Address: Schleifmühlgasse 16, 1040 Vienna

Opening hours: Sun–Wed 8:00 am–7:00 pm, Thu–Sat 8:00 am–11:00 pm

If you’re craving a cosy atmosphere and cakes that taste just like grandma used to make, Vollpension is the place to be. This intergenerational café brings together real grandmas and grandpas who bake with lots of love. The concept combines nostalgia with a great social cause and offers not only delicious Austrian pastries, but also breakfast and coffee.

The small but charming Schanigarten on Schleifmühlgasse invites you to take a break – ideal for a sweet study pause, a coffee catch-up or a breakfast with friends with vintage vibes.

Käuzchen (1080): Cosy Schanigarten in Vienna’s Josefstadt District

Address: Gardegasse 8, 1070 Vienna
Opening hours: Mon–Sat 4:00 pm–2:00 am, Sun 4:00 pm–12:00 am

If you’re into alternative vibes, Käuzchen is the place to be. This cult bar in the 7th district offers the perfect dose of cosiness on warm evenings, with its small Schanigarten lit by colourful fairy lights.

It’s a real hangout for creative minds – often students, sometimes artists, but always friendly people. Plus, the prices are student-friendly and the selection is wide: from hearty Austrian dishes and tasty snacks to a long list of beers and drinks, there’s something for everyone.

Occasionally they also have pub quizzes – perfect if you’re up for more than just chatting.

Mamamon (1080): Authentic Outdoor Dining Area with Thai Street Food

Address: Albertgasse 15, 1080 Vienna
Opening hours: Mon–Fri 11:30 am–3:00 pm & 5:00 pm–10:00 pm, Sat 11:30 am–10:00 pm

If you’re craving authentic Thai food without spending too much, Mamamon in the 8th district is a must. There’s a small Schanigarten in front of the restaurant right on the street, but if you prefer something quieter, you’ll find a lovely little hideaway in the leafy courtyard – perfect for a break from uni or the city bustle. The menu features classics like Pad Thai, Thai curry, and delicious Thai milk tea – all served street-food style, fast and budget-friendly. 

A real hidden gem, ideal for a relaxed lunch or an early dinner outdoors.

Polkadot (1080): Colourful Outdoor Dining in Vienna’s Creative Hub

Address: Albertgasse 12, 1080 Vienna
Opening hours: Mon–Thu 7:00 pm–1:00 am, Fri & Sat 7:00 pm–3:00 am

If you’re looking for a place where you can not only sit outside but also meet people, play, laugh, and party, Polkadot is the place to be. This multicultural bar shines with a small, colourful outdoor seating area that gets lively in the evenings.

The program is as diverse as the crowd: pub quizzes, cabaret shows, live music, and the occasional quirky theme party make this the perfect post-uni hangout.

Whether you’re enjoying a drink with friends, a round of foosball, a board game, or just people-watching – Polkadot is the spot for anyone who loves to be in the middle of it all.

Augustin (1150): One of the Best Outdoor Restaurants Vienna Offers for Late Risers

Address: Märzstraße 67, 1150 Vienna
Opening hours: Mon–Thu 5:00 pm–12:00 am, Fri 5:00 am–1:00 am, Sat 9:00 am–1:00 am, Sun 9:00 am–11:00 pm

If you love sleeping in on the weekends and then enjoying a relaxed outdoor breakfast, Augustin is the perfect spot. Every Saturday, Sunday, and public holiday, the charming courtyard transforms into a breakfast salon from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm. On the menu: classic, Turkish, and vegan breakfast options.

It’s not a traditional Schanigarten but a peaceful, sheltered courtyard – and that’s exactly what makes it so special. The atmosphere is relaxed, with charming walls and cute garden furniture creating a cosy vibe. There’s also a wide selection of food and drinks, and regular live music, especially in summer – perfect for a laid-back get-together.

Naturkost Liola (1200): Vienna Outdoor Dining Area with Organic Soul

Address: Karl-Meißl-Straße 6, 1200 Vienna
Opening hours: Tue & Fri 1:00 pm–6:00 pm, Wed & Thu 11:00 am–1:00 pm & 2:00 pm–6:00 pm, Sat 9:00 am–12:30 pm

A little bit living room, a little bit backyard idyll – the Schanigarten at Naturkost Liola is definitely different and a true hidden gem in Vienna’s 20th district. Especially charming are the mismatched vintage chairs and the occasional deck chair in the shade – it immediately feels like home.

They serve vegetarian and vegan dishes, freshly prepared with organic ingredients. The menu may be small, but it’s thoughtfully curated – and totally affordable. Perfect for a lunch after visiting the market or a relaxed afternoon with herbal tea and vegan cake.

Zum Finsteren Stern (1010): Hidden Outdoor Seating in Vienna’s Historic Centre

Address: Schulhof 8, 1010 Vienna
Opening hours: Wed–Sat 6:00  pm-12:00 am

If you’re in the mood for something a little more elegant or want to celebrate a special occasion, Zum Finsteren Stern definitely deserves a spot on your list. Despite the name sounding a bit dark, the Schanigarten is quite the opposite: a relaxed evening spot right in the heart of the city – peaceful, charming, and completely free of traffic noise. The Schanigarten is located in a pedestrian zone, surrounded by charming old-town cobblestones and far away from busy streets.

Prices are in the mid-to-upper range, but considering the central location, the calm setting, and cosy atmosphere, it’s well worth a visit. They serve drinks and small dishes – ideal for a laid-back dinner or a post-uni drink.

Tips for Students: How to Find the Best Outdoor Seating Vienna Offers

The perfect Schanigarten doesn’t have to be hard to find, expensive, or far away – often it’s worth paying attention to the little details. With these tips, you’ll be sure to find the ideal spot for your next outdoor coffee, open-air study session, or summer evening with friends.

Happy Hours and Lunch Deals

Many places offer special deals at certain times – like discounted drinks during Happy Hour or affordable lunch menus. Especially during the week, it’s worth keeping an eye out for these. A quick look at the menu online can help you plan ahead and maybe even try something new without breaking the bank.

Close to Campus

If the next Schanigarten is only a few minutes from your campus, even a short lecture break can feel like a mini holiday. Many of the places we’ve listed are in ideal locations to catch your breath or enjoy a change of scenery between classes.

Coworking in the Sun

Some outdoor spots are also great for studying, coworking, or group projects. With stable Wi-Fi, a calm vibe, and good food and drinks, the Schanigarten quickly turns into the perfect open-air office. Power outlets are rare, but for shorter sessions, it’s usually enough.

Tip: Just ask! Many places are happy to host students who want to work while they sip a coffee.

Whether it’s for a quick caffeine break, a relaxed dinner with friends, or a productive hour with your laptop and a spritzer – Vienna’s Schanigärten have just the right vibe for any student moment. So grab your favourite people (or your study notes) and soak up the summer in one of the city’s many charming outdoor cafés and beer gardens.
Because let’s be honest: being outside is the best!

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